Tempered Optimism

Poll results from farmers and agribusiness executives

The outlook for agricultural revenues and exports remains largely positive, even in light of environ-mental and public-sector issues. That’s according to an informal survey of agribusiness executives and top-level producers during the 2014 Ag Executive Forum. The event was hosted by Farm Journal, the Association of Equipment Manufacturers and CropLife America.

Of the respondents, 69% say the revenue line for their business will increase anywhere from 1% to more than 10% in the next three years. Through the expansion of existing markets and new ones opening, 70% say domestic incomes will increase five years from now.

At the same time, the respondents acknowledge that there are several public-sector issues that could have a big impact on the future of agriculture. Nearly half (47%) say environmental issues will have the biggest bearing—a percentage equal to the next three most important issues: food safety, energy and biofuels, and trade.